The Pollyseeds - Sounds of Crenshaw, Vol. 1

At this point, if it says ‘Terrace Martin’ in the credits somewhere then you’ve just gotta listen. For this new one he’s called in all sorts of mates - from Kamasi Washington to Robert Glasper to Rose Gold and plenty more – for a kind of all-star groove fest. Think smooth jazz mixed with R&B, with a hint of LA soft-rock and a dose of funk. Summer sounds, in other words. When you’ve got this many talented musicians all laying it down on tape then you know you’re in business and if the record maybe keeps a little too mid-tempo then that’s only coz it’s goes down so flippin’ easy.

Tyler, the Creator – Flower Boy

Old mate Tyler is maturing a little with age, so the narrative goes. Is he really though? Or is this just the best album he’s ever done and that only makes it seem like he’s more mature? Eh, perhaps a bit of both. Tyler’s never been as precise and deliberate with his words as here, that’s for sure. But he still knows how to whip up a frenzy when he wants to. Flower Boy is a record that doesn’t waste time, Tyler says what he wants to say and he produced the whole thing himself – very well, it’s worth adding. Guests all serve a purpose and there’s genuine honesty here. The slow songs are actually on par with the bangers. Damn, man. This is just a really strong album.

Japanese Breakfast – Soft Sounds From Another Planet

You don’t get too many album titles as on the money as this one. Initially designed as a “science-fiction musical”, what instead transpired is this hugely atmospheric yet sharply personable record, somewhere between the boundaries of electronic and shoegaze stuff. SSFAP is obviously a big stride forward for Michelle Zauner but it’s also a natural one. Her sounds have expanded into outer space but her words remain rooted in human experience.

Domo Genesis – Red Corolla

Although Odd Future doesn't appear to be an all-encompassing group anymore, their roots stretch far beyond Tyler, The Creator and Earl Sweatshirt's success. Domo Genesis is just another OF artist who has established a themself as a solo act and his latest offering Red Corolla not only sees Domo backing up an extensive catalogue of quality, it also serves as a fine introduction to new listeners. Highly introspective and skillful, Domo is one to watch and you'd be wise to pump this loud in your red Corolla, any colour Corolla will do though.

Kane Strang – Two Hearts and No Brain

Get a bit of that Dunedin sound in you with Kane Strang’s latest. The kiwi indie lad is all about a sweet hook and some poppy guitar, reeling off these tracks that are at once bright and shiny but usually contrasted with some seriously downer lyrics and vocals. It’s a weird blend, like the frown version of Fazerdaze’s wonderful LP from earlier on in the year. Couldn’t say it’s quite as good as that one but there’s plenty to tap the foot along to here, for sure.

James Elkington – Wintres Woma

There’s something so sunny soothing about a proper, well-written folk album. A melancholic voice haunting over some precisely finger-picked acoustic guitar with the slightest hint of instrumental backup. James Elkington has laid it down here like a champ. From the first notes you’re transported to that chilled place of calm – the title translates to ‘The Sounds of Winter’. A touch of the Celtic tradition, a touch of the American (Elkington is English but based outta Chicago). Close your eyes and enjoy.

Dizzee Rascal – Raskit

After years of exploring different sounds and enjoying himself on the festival scene, Dizzee Rascal has gone vintage and gone back to some dirty raaaaskit on his new album ... 'Raskit'. Right from the album cover you can tell Dizzee has got back to his roots, although he's still managed to add a more modern twist on his grime style. Most importantly, it's a breath of fresh air to hear Dizzee's vocabulary and there's no one in the game who brings together such a variety of words and references like big Dizzy Dizz from the LDN.

Sudan Archives – Sudan Archives

Also known as Brittney Denise Parks, a 23 year old violinist working outta LA. Guaranteed this six-track EP is like nothing else you’ve heard lately. Intricate African rhythms coupled with a folk-electronic blend and just enough listens of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill to make it all blend together perfectly. Cannot wait ‘til we get a full length album.

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